Game 30 Recap-
Los Angeles Angels 3-Baltimore Orioles 1
Los Angeles Angels RH SP Jon Garland was the story in California, as he kept the Baltimore Orioles off balance all day and posted the victory, 3-1. The young veteran pitched 8 innings, allowed 3 hits, 1 run while walking and striking out 1. He credited pitching coach Mike Butcher’s DVD study and side sessions for his performance. He had allowed 16 earned runs in 17 1/3 innings at home prior to Saturday’s start.
In the 2nd inning, DH Aubrey Huff singled and was driven in by LF Luke Scott’s 2 out single to make it 1-0 Baltimore. Unfortunately,Garland retired the next 13 consecutive batters. Melvin Mora’s one out double in the 7th was the only other Orioles hit.
Baltimore RH Daniel Cabrera also pitched well but was done in by Angels small ball and situational hitting. Over his 7 1/3 innings, he allowed 6 hits, 3 runs and struck out 6. He continued to show improved control as he held down a selective Los Angeles lineup to 2 walks.
The Angels scored 2 runs in the 6th after a HBP and walk, DH Reggie Willits drove in the 1st run with a single and RF Gary Matthews followed with a sac fly for a 2-1 Los Angeles lead. In the 8th, the Angels scored a huge run on a Matthews sac fly after a single,sacrifice and wld pitch. The 2 run led was more than enough for closer Francisco Rodriquez as he retired the side in order for a 3-1 Angels victory and his ML leading 12th save.
Star of the Game-Garland- If he pitches like this, Angels could win World Series
Making Progress? I continue to harp on the maturation of Cabrera. Although he lost today, he has improved the control and is keeping the Os in games. Prior to this start, he carried a 6.55 era vs the Angels. 2 of his ML 18 leading losses from 07 came at their hands and he allowed 11 earned runs in 11 innings. His growth is a key to the success of the Orioles going forward.
Next Game-
Sunday-3:35 PM- Angel Stadium of Anaheim
Orioles RH Steve Trachsel(1-3) vs Los Angeles LH Joe Saunders(5-0)
